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May 9, 2025 41 mins

This week we head to the remote beaches of the Great Barrier Reef—where plastic pollution is piling up faster than we can clean it. But is picking up rubbish really the solution? Or just the beginning?

Join us as we play trash detective with marine debris expert Heidi Tait, founder of Tangaroa Blue and the Australian Marine Debris Initiative. From her early days as a dive instructor to shaping global plastic policies, Heidi shares her extraordinary story—and the innovative ways she’s turning data into action.

Discover where this plastic really comes from, why even the most isolated coastlines aren’t safe, and how you can be part of the movement to stop pollution before it hits the beach.

Plus, hosts Tanya Murphy and Brett Goodban break down what the latest Federal Election means for the future of the Great Barrier Reef.

Support the show

  • Got questions? Text us on 0437 835 937 or email info@wordonthereef.org
  • Sign the Petition, asking the Australian Government for stronger policies to protect the Great Barrier Reef.
  • Support Word on the Reef on Patreon
  • Follow @WordOnTheReefPodcast on Instagram
  • If you'd like to ask a question, be a guest on the podcast or suggest a topic, contact: info@wordonthereef.org
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